telescopic

adjective

tele·​scop·​ic ˌte-lə-ˈskä-pik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or performed with a telescope

b

: suitable for seeing or magnifying distant objects

2

: seen or discoverable only by a telescope

telescopic stars

3

: able to discern objects at a distance

4

: having parts that telescope

telescopically

ˌte-lə-ˈskä-pi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of telescopic in a Sentence

The rifle has a telescopic sight.

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to a telescopic handle, dual spinning wheels, and top, side, and front carry handles, this carry-on comes with corner bumpers, skid bars, and a five-year warranty to ensure longevity. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 17 Jan. 2025

In 2012, telescopic images appeared to show something in the shadows. —Ailsa Harvey, Space.com, 17 Jan. 2025

Observations can often be biased due to the limitations of telescopic technology in the era in which the data was taken. —Bruce Dorminey, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

The other Paralympics category is compound bow, which features mechanical pulleys, telescopic sights and release aids to assist accuracy. —Claire Osborn, Austin American-Statesman, 29 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1674, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

telescopic

adjective

tele·​scop·​ic ˌtel-ə-ˈskäp-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or performed with a telescope

2

: seen or discoverable only by a telescope

telescopic stars

3

: able to discern objects at a distance

telescopic vision

4

: having parts that telescope

telescopically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb